The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is reporting significant progress in its efforts to combat crime, with major recoveries of firearms, ammunition, and illegal drugs, along with several arrests.
In the wake of recent robberies police officers will also be monitoring financial institutions and businesses.
After 26 days of the current state of emergency, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is reporting on the successes of their operations thus far.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, Junior Benjamin the TTPS has executed 1 thousand 4 hundred and 55 operations. He says, through the use of a strategic targeting approach they have also identified 1 thousand 3 hundred and 16 targeted priority offenders, allowing the TTPS to analyse crimes faster, including murders and possible suspects.
“We have conducted at least to this point 8,706 search, from those searches 1,142 persons have been arrested. We have recovered thus far 50 firearms and we have also recovered 1,270 assorted ammunition. In terms of dangerous drugs seized thus far, we have had at least 155 kilograms of marijuana and 749 grammes of cocaine.”
With Carnival fast approaching, Assistant Commissioner of Police, North West and Special Operations, Richard Smith is offering safety tips to members of the public, including limiting the amount of information they share on social media forums, including their whereabouts. He is also urging persons to be responsible on the roadways and to avoid driving while under the influence of alcohol.
“You must be aware of your surroundings, when you leaving your home you must ensure that you secure it properly, ensure that you don’t leave lights on that could cause problems. Ensure your children are safe and secure. Ensure that you do not accept drinks from strange persons or even accept rides from strange persons.”
According to Sargent Verson Jeanville the TTPS continues their rigorous drive against gangs in Trinidad and Tobago through the complete utilizations of all available methods of investigations and resources. He says, a number of these investigations are now in advance stages.
“A number of these files have been submitted and are being reviewed by our legal team and we hope to approach the Director of Public Prosecutions very soon with a view of securing not only prosecutions but convictions against these individuals.”
DCP Smith is encouraging members of the public to assist the TTPS in their crime fighting initiatives. He says, persons can safely contact the TTPS Anti-Crime hotline at 555.